Ambient Air Control Nodes for Occupancy-Based Ventilation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control systems for environmental parameters in operating areas, such as mines and refrigerating chambers, often operate inefficiently as they do not adapt to the presence or absence of humans and working machines, leading to unnecessary energy consumption and ineffective temperature or air quality control.
Innovation Solution
A control system comprising a central unit, mobile sensor units, and communication nodes that wirelessly communicate to adjust actuators based on sensor readings, allowing for automatic configuration and operation of sensors and actuators, enabling targeted and efficient control of environmental parameters like temperature and air quality, even in areas with signal-blocking barriers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If actuators operate constantly to maintain environmental parameters, then the environmental parameter level is maintained, but energy consumption increases unnecessarily
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static constant operation of actuators to dynamic operation based on real-time sensor data. Mobile sensor units continuously monitor environmental parameters and occupancy, allowing actuators to adjust their operation dynamically - running only when and where needed rather than constantly throughout the entire space.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically adjusts actuator operation based on sensor feedback without manual intervention. The system self-regulates by detecting environmental conditions and occupancy levels, then autonomously controlling actuators to maintain parameters only in occupied or necessary areas, eliminating the need for constant full-system operation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If manual control is used to adjust ventilation in working areas, then energy consumption is reduced, but response time and control precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where mobile sensor units monitor environmental parameters and occupancy in real-time, transmit data to the control system, which then automatically adjusts actuator operation. This closed-loop feedback enables rapid automatic response to changing conditions without manual intervention delays.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical control with automated electronic control based on sensor feedback. Mobile sensor units and wireless communication replace the need for manual monitoring and adjustment, enabling faster and more precise control responses while reducing energy consumption through intelligent actuator management.
3Measurement precision
If fixed sensors are installed throughout the operating area, then measurement coverage is improved, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the monitoring function into multiple mobile sensor units that can be distributed throughout the operating area. Instead of one complex fixed sensor system, multiple simpler mobile units provide comprehensive coverage by moving to different locations, reducing individual unit complexity while maintaining overall system capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces static fixed sensor installations with dynamic mobile sensor units. These mobile units can be transported to different locations within the operating area, providing flexible monitoring coverage without requiring complex fixed infrastructure throughout the entire space. The mobility allows adaptive positioning based on occupancy and environmental needs.
4Ease of operation
If wireless signals are used for communication in areas with barriers, then installation flexibility is improved, but signal reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces communication nodes as intermediary devices that relay wireless signals between mobile sensor units and the central control system. These nodes are strategically positioned to overcome signal-blocking barriers, receiving signals from sensors in difficult-to-reach areas and forwarding them to the control system, thereby maintaining communication reliability without requiring direct line-of-sight connections.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for controlling at least one environmental parameter in an operating area in response to sensor signals. The system includes a central control unit, actuators and mobile sensor units, and also at least one, preferably a plurality, of communication nodes which are placed in the operating area. Each one of the communication nodes is configured to mediate signals between the sensor units and the central control unit in a monitoring area by wirelessly receiving sensor signals from sensor units located within its monitoring area and forwarding the sensor signals to the central control unit. A monitoring area of a communication node is defined by the signal coverage of the communication node.